Places to go, things to see

One tank (or less) road trips

One tank (or less) road trips

June 02, 2009

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Story by Ann Rowland

Here’s a riddle. Question: What do you say to someone taking a Staycation? Answer: “Non voyage!”

In case you didn’t know, there’s a new word in the dictionary: staycation (or stay-cation, or stacation). It is “a period of time in which an individual or family stays at home and relaxes at home or takes day trips from their home to area attractions.” (Wikipedia)

Because of high gas prices and high unemployment rates, people simply cannot afford to take vacations the way they used to, causing a rise in the number of staycations. This is good news for Northern Michigan as more of those staycation dollars will be spent in this area.

Even better is living here, where a single tank of gas will get us to an almost unending list of great destinations and back home again without having to spend the night. From time to time this summer, we’ll point you toward some that are familiar, and a few that may be new to you. Assuming an average fuel economy of 20 mpg and an average tank size of 16.5 gallons, you’ll find that there’s a lot of fun to be had for the cost of one tank.

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This time we’ll head north, taking in two lesser-known destinations.

First, we’ll visit the only recognized waterfall in the Lower Peninsula — Ocqueoc Falls. It’s located about 10 miles northeast of Onaway, and though it is not much more than 5 feet high, it’s really pretty and a fun place to play in the water on a hot day.

To get there, take US-27 or I-75 (if you’re in a hurry) to Indian River, and then M-68 east. You’ll pass through the little town of Tower and through Onaway (be sure to look for the iron sculptures made by Moran Iron Works!) after which you’ll continue for about seven miles to Ocqueoc Road. Head north. After about two miles, turn right onto Ocqueoc Falls Road. From there, you can’t miss it. There is plenty of good signage.

Expect an easy five-minute walk along a level path to reach the falls. There are hiking trails that wind along the Ocqueoc River, picnic tables and lots of good places to wade. No vehicle sticker is required, and there is no admission charge.

The second destination is a “new” lighthouse — one that has just been opened to the public for the first time. It is the McGulpin Point Light, located two miles west of Mackinaw City.

The lighthouse was decommissioned way back in 1906, remaining dark for more than 102 years; until May 30 of this year. The property, which was once one of the Lower Peninsula’s largest Native American settlements, became the first deeded parcel of land in Emmet County.

Kept in private ownership since it went dark until the summer of 2008 when it was purchased by Emmet County, the structure has been restored and the beacon re-lit. The lighthouse is open for tours on the weekends, and those who brave the climb up the tower are treated to a spectacular view of the Straits of Mackinaw.

If you go, don’t miss the short trail that leads to the shore of Lake Michigan, where the Mackinaw Bridge is visible end-to-end. If you’re looking for a spectacular, quiet place to watch the sunset, this is it!

One day and less than a tank of gas will get you to both of these quiet places, even if you choose to meander your way along the scenic drive between Huron Beach (where Ocqueoc Road and US-23 meet) and Mackinaw City along US-23.

A great staycation doesn’t have to cost a lot of money, so pack up the cooler, grab your water shoes and a sweatshirt, the kids and a camera and see where a tank of gas will take you.